How Often Should You Get Your HVAC Filter Changed?
Changing your HVAC system air filter is one of the basic maintenance tasks you can perform, but it’s also one of the most vital. Having a clean filter can help your system to operate more efficiently, lower your energy bills, and improve the air quality in your home. So, how can you keep your filter in the best condition possible? Read on to learn more about what affects the lifespan of your filter, how to determine when it needs to be changed, and how often you should change it.
Factors That Impact your Air Filter
The frequency with which you must change your air filter will depend on a few different factors. Some things can cause the filter to get clogged much faster, requiring it to be changed more often. One of these considerations is how often you use your HVAC system. If you use your cooling and heating system rarely, one filter could last up to a year. However, if your system is running nearly 24/7, you will need to replace the filter every few weeks to keep everything running properly.
You’ll also need to consider the size of your home. With smaller houses, furnaces and air conditioners don’t need to pump as much air to change the temperature as they would in a larger home. This could result in fewer filter changes. On the other hand, appliances installed in smaller homes are also smaller, which means smaller filters, so the difference could be negligible.
Lastly, think about the air quality in your house. The filter’s longevity is affected by the air inside and outside of your home. If you have poor air quality outside, you may need to change the filter more often. Pets can also lower the air quality indoors, especially if your furry friend sheds a lot. In this case, you will need to switch out the filter every two months. Additionally, if anyone in your home suffers from asthma or allergies, it may benefit them to change the filter even more frequently, or every six weeks.
How to Determine When It’s Time to Get the Filter Changed
Staying on top of your HVAC maintenance is crucial for the health of your family and the health of your appliance. Dirty filters can, over time, cause serious harm to your HVAC system, eventually requiring heating service in Pittsburgh, PA. Ideally, you should check your air filter at least once every month. Take it out of the appliance and hold it up to a light source. If you can’t see any light through it, it’s dirty and should be replaced with a clean one.
How Often Should You Change the Air Filter
In general, you should aim to replace your air filter every 90 days or so. The longer you use an air filter, the less effective it becomes. As mentioned above, certain factors can impact the lifespan of an air filter, requiring it to be changed either more or less frequently. To learn more about how often you should change your air filter or to get even more tips on maintaining your HVAC system’s efficiency, contact us at Stahl Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning.
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